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Predatory: meaning, definitions and examples

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predatory

 

[ ˈprɛdəˌtɔri ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

describing behavior

Predatory refers to behaviors that involve hunting, exploiting, or preying on others. It is often used to describe animals that hunt other animals for food, as well as behaviors in humans that are deceitful or exploitative. In ecological terms, it describes species that feed on other organisms. Predatory behavior can indicate aggression and a desire to dominate, often leading to harmful outcomes for the preyed upon.

Synonyms

aggressive, exploitative, hunting, predacious

Examples of usage

  • The predatory instincts of the lion make it a top predator in the savanna.
  • Predatory lending practices can lead to significant financial hardship for borrowers.
  • The predator-prey relationship is crucial for understanding ecosystems.
  • Some species have developed unique adaptations to enhance their predatory skills.

Translations

Translations of the word "predatory" in other languages:

🇵🇹 predatório

🇮🇳 शिकारी

🇩🇪 räuberisch

🇮🇩 predator

🇺🇦 хижий

🇵🇱 drapieżny

🇯🇵 捕食性の

🇫🇷 prédateur

🇪🇸 depredador

🇹🇷 avcı

🇰🇷 포식적인

🇸🇦 مفترس

🇨🇿 predátorský

🇸🇰 predátorský

🇨🇳 掠食的

🇸🇮 plenilski

🇮🇸 rönd

🇰🇿 жыртқыш

🇬🇪 მდევარი

🇦🇿 yırtıcı

🇲🇽 depredador

Word origin

The word 'predatory' originates from the Latin word 'predator', which means 'one who seizes or plunders'. It entered the English language in the early 19th century, retaining that meaning while also evolving to encompass a broader sense of exploitation beyond just the animal kingdom. Initially, it was primarily used in zoological contexts, describing species that hunt and kill other animals for sustenance. Over time, the term expanded to encapsulate metaphorical uses, particularly in human behavior and social contexts, where it often implies a degree of ruthlessness and lack of ethics in the pursuit of goals. Today, 'predatory' can refer to both biological and economic or social contexts, illustrating its versatility in language.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,457, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.